Market Specialist - New York (Upstate)

JOB SUMMARY   The Market Specialist supports sales execution within the retail channel across the Upstate New York market. This position is responsible for lead selling, including key account calls, program execution, and assisting with distributor management. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a background in distributor and account management, sales execution, and the beverage alcohol industry. This role requires routine travel throughout the assigned territory to support distributor partners and independent retail accounts. Candidates residing in or near the Buffalo or Rochester areas are strongly preferred based on the territory and business needs.   ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS   Lead selling and account management within the retail channel across the assigned geography. Build strong relationships with distributor execution teams and field-level management, establishing an effective business rhythm throughout the distributor network. Schedule and lead effective distributor general sales meetings. Drive execution of TWG sales programs and priorities across independent retail accounts within the assigned market. Develop creative sales execution concepts and share successful practices across markets and regions. Assist with field surveys, including local scheduling and execution, as applicable. Drive state-level FSO scorecard performance. Ensure TWG new item launches, monthly retail priorities, and other key initiatives are effectively executed within independent retail accounts. Manage assigned budgets, including incentives, samples, demos and tastings, travel and entertainment, and other departmental expenses. Manage administrative responsibilities, including wholesaler inventory, monthly CPR, phasing calendar, working account lists, and relevant travel and entertainment expenses. Assist in the execution of sales strategy, pricing, programming, and key initiatives for the independent retail channel. Ensure all sales practices comply with applicable state laws and company policies. Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by the Region Manager. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.   QUALIFICATIONS   Ability to travel with overnight stays. 3 plus years of field sales experience with a supplier or distributor.    Retailer lead selling experience is a plus. Intermediate wine knowledge or associated certifications preferred. Knowledge of Nielsen, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Word. Bachelor’s Degree required. Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Must meet minimum insurance requirements with a clean motor vehicle record. Must have a proactive spirit and possess strong initiative. Must be well organized with an ability to work independently as well as in a team environment and be flexible to changes in the wine industry. Must be able to work and succeed in a dynamic entrepreneurial environment. Support and model all Company procedures and policies.   PHYSICAL DEMANDS   Position operates in a professional office environment. Ability to perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, standing, and twisting. Must be able to lift and carry up to 55 lbs. Position includes travel to work with distributors, survey markets within region and attend various industry and/or company events. Must maintain a clean driving record and meet minimum state insurance requirements.    COMPENSATION   Hiring Salary Range Posted: $62,320 - $93,480. Actual compensation will be based on factors such as experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities, education, and other position-related factors.     At The Wine Group, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristic protected by law.   #LI-KR1